Who:
Los Angeles Police Department's Chief of Police William J. Bratton, LAPD Assistant Chief of Police James McDonnell, LAPD Officer Christopher Chavez

What:
Hospital Medical Discharge of Officer Christopher Chavez

When:
Tuesday, May 20, 2003 at 11:00 a.m.

Where:
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, South Tower, Front Door Discharge Area, 8700 Beverly Boulevard

Los Angeles: On Saturday, April 12, 2003, at approximately 12:55 a.m., LAPD officer Christopher Chavez, 27 years old, (3 1/2 years on the department), and his partner Leon Maya, 29 years old, (4 years on the department), were assigned to a crime scene perimeter at the corner of Heliotrope Drive and Beverly Boulevard. While standing next to their black and white police vehicle, they were struck by a green mini van that was traveling westbound on Beverly Boulevard. According to a witness, the driver was the only occupant in the vehicle. After colliding with the officers the driver turned northbound onto Kenmore Avenue where he was last seen. Officer Maya was subsequently released from medical care shortly after the incident and Officer Chavez remained hospitalized, seriously injured.

Happily, Officer Chavez has progressed well enough to be discharged from the hospital and go home to be with family and friends. The media is invited to meet with Officer Chavez and his family during this celebratory event. Officer Chavez has indicated he will make a statement to express his gratitude to the hospital staff, friends, and LAPD staff who supported him and his family through his challenging ordeal.

This Press release was prepared by Public Information Officer Jack Richter, Media Relations Section, 213-485-3586.